Mike Haviland wasn't wearing a holster Wednesday as he awaited the arrival of newly acquired Chris Brown and Rostislav Klesla, but he did recite a line that would work in a movie western.

“Until you get the whites of their eyes,” Hershey Bears head coach Haviland said, “then you kind of go from there.”

The Bears practiced at Hersheypark Arena without the duo, ticketed to report to Hershey. Haviland said he was awaiting advisement on when they would join the team.

Winger Brown and defenseman Klesla were acquired Tuesday in a trade by the Washington Capitals that sent Martin Erat to the Phoenix Coyotes.

Brown, who led the Portland Pirates in goals last season (29-18-47) as a rookie and has produced 14-21-35 in 51 games this season, adds a top-six forward to Hershey's mix.

“Brown, I've heard a lot of good things about,” Haviland said. “I've talked to some people that I know. A lot of people say a lot of good things about him.

“He's certainly had some pretty decent numbers in two years at this level and certainly has the potential to play in the National Hockey League.”

Bears winger Joel Rechlicz played with Brown last season in Portland.

“He's a great player,” Rechlicz said. “He's a great teammate. He plays tough. He's got a lot of skill. He's going to be a huge addition to the team. He's great off the ice, too. One of the best teammates I've ever had.”

The NHL trade deadline doesn't come until 3 p.m. Wednesday and the AHL trade deadline is March 12. But, for the moment, Klesla's addition gives Hershey two more veterans than they are allowed to dress in games.

“If Klesla gets sent here, then he does and we have to deal with it if nobody else gets moved,” Haviland said.

“That's part of the game for all of us at this level. Guys have to understand that and we're going to have to make it work if they don't move anybody.”

Winger John Mitchell, who has played just two of the last 23 games, exited the Bears in the Erat deal and is ticketed to join Portland.

“Maybe he gets an opportunity,” Haviland said. “I think he kind of got caught up in numbers around here. I wish him the best. He was a good pro.”

Trade deadlines make things uncertain for coaches and players, but Haviland said they are entertaining.

“I like it,” he said. “It's fun to watch the ticker and see who's going to get moved and who wins out on deals and who doesn't.